Understanding a Grant of Representation

When a loved one passes away, it can be an extremely difficult time. But with a Grant of Representation in place and a trusted accountant for probate services by your side, things should flow as smoothly as possible. Let’s find out more about what a Grant of Representation actually is and how to obtain one.

A Grant of Representation Explained

A Grant of Representation is issued by the Probate Registry in the United Kingdom. It gives the person named on it the authority to handle the estate of a deceased person. An estate can include properties, vehicles, jewellery, artwork, heirlooms and other assets. It serves as legal proof that the person administering the estate has a right to do so.

Handling an estate can also include paying off any debts or taxes owed by the deceased and distributing assets in accordance with their Will (or the rules of intestacy if they don’t have one). Kent tax advisors can help answer any tax-related queries.

There are two main types of Grants of Representation. These include:

• The Grant of Probate. This is issued when the deceased left a valid Will. The named Executor of the Will is typically responsible for obtaining a Grant of Representation and handling the estate thereafter. The Executor is a trusted person of the deceased.

• The Grant of Letters of Administration. This is issued when the deceased died without a valid Will.

Knowing the type of Grant of Representation needed is important as it’ll dictate which documents are required and which forms to fill in. As you can see, the type depends on the existence of a Will. Having a Will also helps estate management professionals such as Nick Hughes to protect larger and more complex estates.

Application fees for a Grant of Representation are required if an estate is worth over £5,000. Obtaining a Grant of Probate can also be a time-consuming task, so seeking professional help from a Kent accountant for probate services is advisable.

Is the Grant of Representation the Same as Probate?

The Grant of Representation is required in order to obtain Probate. It must be applied for before the Executor of a Will or the nominated administrator of an estate (in cases where there is no Will) can legally carry out their obligations.

Do you Always Need a Grant of Representation?

A Grant of Representation is not always needed. For example, if the deceased had a small estate (typically worth less than £5,000) or if assets are jointly owned, a Grant of Representation might not be needed. Legal permission to handle someone’s estate is only usually required when a deceased person’s assets cannot be easily transferred without one. For example, if all property or money is in their name only. Some financial institutions such as banks have their own rules over the handling of financial assets on someone else’s behalf.

Speak to financial experts today for help with Grant of Representation and probate issues.